Smaller Squats and Shorter Kicks

When I first started in PT school (what now seems like centuries ago), “short arc quad” exercises were frequently prescribed for patients with pain around the kneecap. I am surprised at how frequently these exercises are still prescribed. The JOSPT published a great summary of a research article addressing the best evidence in this area. Essentially, to minimize stress on the patellofemoral joint (the joint between the back of the kneecap and the femur), one should perform “short squat” exercises (0-45 degree range) and short knee extension exercises (90-45 degree range).